Camping sites near Avondale, Pennsylvania sit on the rolling hills of Chester County at elevations between 300-500 feet above sea level. The region receives approximately 47 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush surroundings for campers from spring through fall. Most campgrounds operate seasonally with limited winter availability due to the area's average January temperatures of 30°F.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Swimming isn't allowed at Lums Pond State Park Campground, but the 200-acre pond offers excellent fishing for northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, and muskellunge. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run," shares one visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Canoe and kayak rentals: The Brandywine River provides paddling experiences with rental equipment available at several campgrounds. "We have been there several times because it's so close. The river sites are great but can get muddy and there is a big hill to get up and out. The pool is nice, they have a store and a playground," notes a camper at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. Another visitor adds: "Fishing available!!! Big sell for me."
Hiking trails: Explore various trail systems throughout the region. At Elk Neck State Park, you'll find "great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)." One visitor particularly recommends the "Turkey Point Lighthouse trail which is a must. It is about a five minute drive to get to the trail though, but is worth it!"
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Premium riverside campsites remain highly sought after despite occasional challenges with terrain. "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites," notes a camper about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Spacious campgrounds: Many area campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "the sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun. The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms." Another reviewer adds it's "a gem among nice state parks" with "beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
Rural views: Lancaster-New Holland KOA provides "unobstructed views of the Amish farmland and lots of room." One camper describes it as "peaceful, beautiful valley views of Amish country" while another calls it the "best kept secret in the area."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. One visitor to Brandywine Creek Campground notes it's open "April 1st to November 1st" which aligns with most area campgrounds' schedules.
Terrain challenges: Sites near water features often present unique considerations. "The river sites are great but can get muddy and there is a big hill to get up and out," explains a Philadelphia-West Chester KOA visitor. At French Creek, "the sites are pretty much level but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Reservation requirements: During peak season, advance planning is essential. At Hibernia County Park, "sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration. Hibernia annually hosts the 'Old Fiddlers Picnic' the second weekend in August. This is the only weekend that you are REQUIRED to call in to reserve."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Children's facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville, families find abundant activities: "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained." Another visitor noted their children "really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)."
Budget-friendly options: Save money at county parks. Hibernia County Park offers camping at "$15/night" which includes "a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill. Plenty of firewood to be found. Great for families."
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer extensive programming for children. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, they even offer birthday packages where "they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter. They have the pools and playgrounds and fishing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on your rig size. At Elk Neck State Park Campground, "in the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site#25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept." The visitor warns: "Heads up, big rig owners! Tight squeeze into Site 25."
Accessibility considerations: Road conditions affect larger RVs. One camper at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA noted: "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road."
